Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Caramel Base

01 - ½ cup unsalted butter
02 - 1 cup brown sugar
03 - 2 tablespoons light corn syrup

→ Custard Mixture

04 - 5 large eggs
05 - 1½ cups half-and-half
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Bread and Topping

09 - 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into thick slices
10 - ¼ cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

→ Optional Toppings

11 - Maple syrup
12 - Fresh berries
13 - Powdered sugar
14 - Whipped cream

# Instructions:

01 - In a saucepan, melt butter and mix with brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth. Spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
02 - Arrange brioche slices over the caramel in a single layer.
03 - Whisk eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour over bread, ensuring even coverage.
04 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill for at least 8 hours.
05 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until golden and set.
06 - Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top and use a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize.
07 - Slice and serve warm with optional toppings.

# Notes:

01 - This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.
02 - If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sugar, but watch carefully to prevent burning.